2018/2019 SCHOOL YEAR PROGRAM

Our school year program is from the beginning of September to the beginning of June. We offer a Pre-ballet program, for ages 3 1/2 yrs to 5 yrs old, that introduces our youngest dancers to the discipline of ballet through stretching, rhythm, basic ballet positions, ability to follow instructions, creativity and fantasy. This level provides the foundation upon which to build the training of a dancer.

Our Ballet Curriculum is for dancers from age 6 to the Pre-Professional Division. Ballet 1 to Ballet 3 meets one time per week and the basics of ballet technique are introduced and expanded upon when the class is ready. Ballet 4 to the Pre-Professional Division is a progression from beginning ballet to the advanced level. Our syllabus and method of teaching is based upon our faculty's combined teaching and professional performing experience. Influences upon our teaching style are from the Russian Vaganova method, Cechetti, and Balanchine.

While it is clearly understood that the majority of dancers will not become professional dancers, all dancers are trained with the necessary skills should they so choose.

PRE-BALLET

Our pre-ballet division is for 3 1/2 yrs to 5 yrs of age and is a fun and imaginative introduction to the world of dance. Imagery is used as children explore movement possibilities with attention to the joy of rhythm and musicality. Gross motor skills such as leaping, skipping, hopping and marching are emphasized in every class. Classroom etiquette is introduced and children learn to work in a group setting with respect for the teacher and fellow dancers.

BALLET CURRICULUM

The ballet curriculum, for students in first thru twelfth grades focuses on immersing students in classical technique that provides a solid foundation not only in ballet, but also for other forms of dance. Jazz, modern, and musical theater students all use ballet as their fundamental training. Thru weekly training in the studio and opportunities to perform in end-of-year recitals and with IRB in The Nutcracker, students will develop musicality, coordination, discipline, and a versatile, classical technique, as well as an in depth understanding of the history and philosophies of dance.

TAP & BROADWAY DANCE

Tap classes are offered in addition to the ballet curriculum as a way to augment classical training, as well as for those students of dance who simply want to learn this uniquely American art form. Tap is a great way to improve musicality, coordination, and rhythm.